How to Install Masonite Siding

• 1). Paint the INSIDE of the masonite siding BEFORE you install it, and allow the paint to dry thoroughly. (See TIPS for more information.)
  
  
• 2). Starting at the lowest corner of the house, nail the pieces of masonite siding that will be considered the first or “starter” strips, following the instructions below EXACTLY. DO NOT drive the nails all the way into the siding. (This is called “counter-sinking”.) Rather, the nails should be level (or “flush”) with the siding surface. (See WARNINGS for additional information.) Leave some space between the siding and the structure so that air can flow through. The siding must be able to “breathe” or moisture will gather underneath it, and rotting will occur. Make sure that all bottom panels are NOT touching the ground, but instead are six inches off the ground.
  
  
• 3). Find the “inside corner post” and “outside corner post” pieces, and install them next. Don’t forget to leave one-fourth inch of space between the posts and the eaves.
  
  
• 4). Install your pieces of siding that are to be used as “J-channels." These fit around doors, windows, and other openings. Install the siding around the sides of the openings first, then across the top, then around any end walls that are found at the gables (if your house has any) last. (See TIPS for more information.)
  
  
• 5). Go ahead and take a minute to check and make sure that you are leaving airspace between the siding and the house and that you are not driving the nails in too far (see Step 2). Make any corrections, if necessary, NOW.
  
  
• 6). Install your trim pieces under all the windows and horizontal (side-to-side) eaves.
  
  
• 7). Install the “wall” panels. DON’T FORGET TO LEAVE AIR SPACE, AND DON’T DRIVE THE NAILS ALL THE WAY IN! Stop frequently (about every fourth or fifth panel) to check for this, and to make sure that the siding installation is straight, even, and level.
  
  
• 8). Install any joint panels or other necessary pieces.